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lifford old courthouse

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Experience Donegal’s Historical Jail

One of Donegal’s most historic buildings, Lifford Old Courthouse is today a multi-purpose visitor centre offering guided jail tours, escape rooms, musical performances, room hire and an on-site bistro.  With activities and events to suit all ages, you’re sure to find the perfect things for your day or night out.

Prisoner being taken by guard

Tours

Fun informative and unlike anything you’ve seen before, this is a guided tour with a difference.

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woman looking at key through magnifying glass

Jailbreak

Jailbreak is a live escape room that challenges you to break out of our cell before time runs out

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breakfast on plate with coffee

Bistro

Set in what was once Donegal’s Grand Courtroom, the Bistro offers a unique dining experience.

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Guard holding prisoner who has a sign saying 'We escaped!'

Transport back in time!

The Old Courthouse in Lifford can be found just 15 miles away from both Letterkenny and Derry. Situated in the capital of Donegal the Old Courthouse was built in 1746 and once upon a time hosted some of the most hardened criminals in the country.

The Courthouse’s very own Bistro is set in what was once Donegal’s Grand Courtroom and it offers a dining experience like no other. Specialising in modern Irish cuisine it caters for everyone whether you are after a light snack, a main course or just a wee treat.

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What’s On

Explore more to do

people at table holding up a glass of prosecco

Parties

Fancy having your party in our Courtroom or one of our function rooms? We can host everything here!

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man playing guitar in front of audience

Events

Music, Comedy and more! Check out our calendar for upcoming events at Lifford Old Courthouse

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room in lifford old courthouse

Room Hire

We have function rooms available for all kinds of conferences, meetings and workshops at any time.

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Testimonials

Really well thought out classic escape room

This was awesome. Our games master was really great – not only did he look after us on our escape room journey but also took the time to explain some of the history behind the Old Courthouse, the jail and even took pics of us as convicts!

Kate W
August 2022

A fantastic tour & escape room experience

Patrick was our tour guide and he was fantastic, a great raconteur who was informative and engaging with our kids. The tour explores the history of the courthouse, its prominence in the town and some of its notable visitors.

Sarah B
August 2022

Passionate, welcoming and lovely staff

The tour was absolutely fantastic, so informative and the staff are so passionate about what they do. Thanks so much we can’t wait to come back. Be sure to read the white wall with facts on it at the end, it’s really well done and very funny!

Rachel E
July 2022

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This project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Pobal through the Community Services Programme.